Best Sights, Dining And Attractions In Winnipeg

12/12/2016 01:10 EST
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Updated
12/12/2016 01:16 EST

Brian Kennedy via Getty Images

An urban cityscape of downtown Winnipeg, Manitoba under a big blue sky.

I love uncovering hidden gems and when someone told me about how Winnipeg has so many amazing restaurants, a flourishing art scene, a fabulous shopping district and one of the most famous museums in Canada, I know I needed to visit.

Winnipeg is the largest city in Manitoba and also the capital. The city was named after Lake Winnipeg and was at one time a major trading post for aboriginal peoples, the Europeans and the French.

Now, it is a city that has many fun and interesting things to see and do.

The Mere Hotel is a sleek, stylish contemporary hotel that has an art installation in their lobby. The hotel is set along the Red River, a 9-minute walk from the Centennial Concert Hall and 1.6 km from the Portage Place Shopping Centre. If you are looking for a unique place to stay with warm, friendly staff then this is the place to be in Winnipeg.

For more ideas on places to stay in Winnipeg, check out Tourism Winnipeg's options for accommodations.

The focus of the museum is to "explore the subject of human rights with a special but not exclusive reference to Canada, in order to enhance the public's understanding of human rights, to promote respect for others and to encourage reflection and dialogue."

With beautiful and inspiring architecture, and thought provoking exhibits this is a must see destination in Winnipeg.

Since 2007, Chocolatier Constance Popp (CCP) has been creating the finest artisan chocolates, pastries and frozen treats in Winnipeg. They use fresh, whole food ingredients and no artificial flavours or preservatives. Their mouth watering chocolates are the finest premium chocolate (including single-origin and single plantation).

Le Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum is a fascinating assembly of artifacts which reveal Western Canada's French-Canadian and Métis heritage. At the same time, recognizing the significant involvements of the First Nations and the religious communities. The Museum's focus is to provide visitors with an expanded understanding of the French-Canadian and Métis cultures in Manitoba.

What could be nicer than enjoying a delicious meal in a gorgeous natural spa setting? The Therma restaurant is nestled in amongst the Thermëa Spa. At the spa you can reenergize in their Nordic baths and waterfalls, steam bath, Finnish sauna, and relaxation areas. Then experience a meal at the Therma restaurant with seasonal favourites included in the menu.

The Forks is one of Winnipeg's premier meeting places. Located in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, The Forks is at the junction of the Assiniboine and Red rivers. If you visit in the winter or the summer (anytime of the year), The Forks has different places you can try for dining, shopping, entertainment events, and fun attractions.

The Exchange District, is a National Historic Site in Winnipeg which features North America's largest and best preserved collection of heritage buildings. There are also plenty of cool shops, restaurants, events, music and art. I love this area! Beautiful stone and brick warehouses, elegant terracotta-clad buildings, narrow angled streets and cobblestone paths are all a part of this magical part of Winnipeg.

If you love to relax in a welcoming pub atmosphere, then the Kings Head Pub is the place for you. Named as one of the best pubs in North America, the Kings Head Pub hosts live music acts and comedians, and is the place everyone goes to after the Jets game! They also have an interesting mix of pub food and Indian cuisine, taken from the owners own family recipes.

History is a big part of the sights you can see in Winnipeg. Lower Fort Garry was constructed in 1830 by the Hudson's Bay Company. The fort is located on the western bank of the Red River approximately 32 km north of the original Fort Garry.

Hudson's Bay Company retained the fort until 1951, at this time it was given to the federal government. In 1958, site was designated a National Historic Site and has also been named one of the top 10 National Historic Sites in the country in 2011 by Canada's History magazine.

If you want to do something really unique for your visit to Winnipeg, you can try Enigma Escapes Winnipeg. This is a Live Escape Game that is an interactive adventure experience. You and your team will be locked in a themed room. You'll be surrounded in puzzles, clues and codes that you will solve by working together as a team. Problem-solving skills, logic and patience will all come in handy as well as a spirit of cooperation and sense of fun. You will have plenty of memories from this fun adventure.

Inferno's on Academy is a restaurant known for their creative menus, wine lists, warm welcoming family atmosphere and as a great place for jazz performed by locals and visiting musicians. Inferno's on Academy is a great place to dine if you would like to try some amazing food and local superb music without breaking the bank.

Your suggestions are always welcome, as I continue on my journey to live life to the fullest. Let's explore some wonderful places and have the very best 2016!